Noel Harrington (Cork South West, Fine Gael)
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Question 182: To ask the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he will take to implement the proposal in the programme for Government to explore the provision of an emergency towing vessel for the Coast Guard; if he will consider the option of a partnership with other bodies or a commercial company which may be interested in such a project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7886/11]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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My Department has been pursuing efforts to develop, enhance and improve Ireland's marine pollution prevention, preparedness and response capability from within existing and available resources and funds. On foot of the programme for Government, there will be a review of the risk posed by international shipping of oil and hazardous substance pollution and an assessment of what steps can be taken for the provision of an emergency towing capacity for the Coast Guard.

The Deputy will be aware that responsibility for the Coast Guard is in the process of being transferred to the Department of Agriculture, Marine and Food.